SWMTSC plans sustainable technology to recycle Everest waste

The Solid Waste Management and Technical Support Centre (SWMTSC) is planning to use a sustainable technology to dispose waste in the Everest region.

A file photo of waste in Everest

The waste collected from the Everest region has been openly burnt in Namche. Burning of plastics is highly dangerous to environment.

“We are planning to introduce a technology to recycle and reuse the waste instead of burning them,” said Dr Sumitra Amatya, executive director at the SWMTSC.

“The centre will support us with technology, awareness programmes and training for locals. We are joining hands with Everest Summitters’ Association and Eco Himal, which have been running the Saving Everest Campaign.”

ESA and Eco Himal campaign collected about eight metric tonnes of waste from the Everest region in May. The collected waste was brought to Kathmandu in June.

“We are working to continue the programme in the coming years,” said Wongchu Sherpa, president of the ESA. “We have also asked the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation to formulate a policy to settle the issue.” About 80,000 people visit the Everest region annually.